Like all of us, I’m thinking of the changes we are currently experiencing in these challenging times. One thing I’m doing is marshalling my thoughts and focussing my efforts on helping teachers and institutions moving online.

The pandemic we are living through has led to unprecedented changes, not least for teachers, trainers, coaches and consultants having to swiftly change to working online, at least temporarily.

The steep learning curve involved can be challenging. This webinar is designed to support SIETAR practitioners moving into online working and provide a forum for collaboration and ideas exchange. Moving online aims to address some of the concerns and problems arising from the current situation and includes:
· key similarities and differences between f2f and online delivery
· platforms and tools for online work
· examples of best practice in online delivery.

The presenter will answer a number of questions and concerns from attendees, including those submitted beforehand and those arising during the webinar. Participant ideas and suggestions will be collated and sent out in a post-webinar document.

Delighted that Digital Innovations and Research in Language Learning (IATEFL / LT SIG) is imminent. Within its hallowed pages nestles my contribution – the chapter entitled: Virtual Reality in English Language Teaching.

The chapter explores the potential uses of Virtual Reality using HMDs (head-mounted displays) in language teaching. It focuses on low, mid and high-end VR devices: Google Cardboard, Samsung Gear and HTC Vive. The chapter is research-driven and takes two approaches. Firstly, it summarises the results of a number of online searches which attempt to identify the literature and research in this area. Secondly, it reports on the results of two small-scale questionnaires for students and teacher to establish their knowledge, experience and attitude towards VR in language teaching and learning.

so….what’s happening? I’ve transferred the information from the Post-it notes (Cologne) and the flipcharts to create on page .pdf which gives a fascinating insight into what ELTA Rhine and ELTAS workshop attendees are doing right now in the area of Blended Learner. Here’s the .pdf:

I really enjoyed coming back to Luxemburg many (many!) years after staying here as a callow youth (when I dimly recall an auberge de jeunesse…). Thanks to all the teachers who attended the keynote talk. This is the place to pick up the various Handouts as follows: